I was driving along at about 25 mph and coasting.

I was driving along at about 25 mph and coasting in second gear when my low oil pressure light came on so I stopped to see what was happening, but I couldn't see much under flashlight at 11 pm, but when I started it the pressure problem went away until I got up to interstate speeds "75 mph" and I drove until I got to work then checked the oil and it didn't read at all on the stick then I noticed under the street light that it was leaking around where the oil filter screws into just above where the actual filter is at. My question is what is that part and would it hurt to drive if I keep oil in it until I get that part fixed or replaced? As I live pay check to pay check a response is most anticipated.